How to recognize a fever in every age group and when to seek medical help
Usually in reaction to an infection, a fever is a transient rise in body temperature.
Although it can be annoying, generally it indicates that your body is combating something. Still, age and associated symptoms will determine if a fever calls for worry.
Understanding Fever in Various Age Groups: 0–3 Month Infants
Between 97.9°F and 99.5°F (36.6°C and 37.5°C), is the normal body temperature.
Definition of Fever: Any temperature more than 100.4°F (38°C) is regarded as a fever and calls for quick medical intervention.
Lethargy, irritability, refusals to feed, vomiting, diarrhea, or fast breathing are symptoms to be alert for.
Three to six months old infants:
Dictionary definition of fever: Above 102°F (38.9°C) a temperature is alarming.
Conditions to be on alert for: Apart from the ones mentioned for newborns under three months, check for convulsions, stiff neck, or difficulty breathing.
Children, six months to two years:
Definition of fever: A temperature above 102°F (38.9°C) is worrisome.
Irritability, fatigue, a loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, dyspnea, stiff neck, or seizures are symptoms to be on lookout for.
Youngsters (2–5 years):
Definition of fever: A temperature above 103°F (39.4°C) is worrisome.
Symptoms to be alert for: Like older children, but keep an eye on behavioral changes include being particularly quiet or withdrawn.
Older Children and Adults:
Definition of fever: Usually speaking, a temperature higher than 100.4°F (38°C) is regarded as a fever.
Severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, trouble breathing, chest discomfort, repeated vomiting, or a rash are symptoms to be on alert for.
When Should I See a Doctor?
Regardless of age, if you have sudden medical treatment required:
Your youngster is less than three months old and has a fever.
Your youngster has a fever together with seizures, trouble breathing, stiff neck, or repeated vomiting.
Your child’s fever runs more than three days.
You believe fever causes dehydration.
Along with your temperature, you have severe symptoms including disorientation, dyspnea, or coughing.
Your immunological system is compromised.
Taking the Temperature of Your Child
Though this approach can be painful, rectally is the most precise way to take a child’s temperature. Other choices include in oral, axillary (armpit), and temporal artery (forehead) thermometers. For exact readings, always follow manufacturer directions.
Management of Fever
Though fever by itself is usually benign, it can be uncomfortable. These guidelines are here:
Dress light-wise. Overheating can aggravate a fever.
Increase your fluid intake oral rehydration solutions, broths, or water will help to prevent dehydration.
Take fever-reducing drugs. See your pediatrician about suitable over-the-counter meds.
Rest: Enough sleep aids in bodily fight against infection.
This material is only generic and should not substitute expert medical advice. See a healthcare professional always if you have questions regarding the temperature of your child.